Cesari “Due Torri” Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore DOC 2018

Cesari “Due Torri” Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore DOC is a richly textured red wine from the Valpolicella region in Veneto, Italy. Made using the traditional Ripasso method, which involves re-fermenting the wine on the leftover grape skins from Amarone, this wine showcases enhanced depth, complexity, and richness. On the nose, it offers inviting aromas of ripe black cherries, plums, and dried figs, followed by hints of leather, tobacco, and a touch of sweet spice. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, with velvety tannins and layers of dark fruit, licorice, and a hint of chocolate. The wine’s finish is long and smooth, offering a perfect balance of fruit, spice, and oak.

Wine Details:

• Type: Red Wine
• Style: Medium to full-bodied rich red
• Grape Varietal: Corvina Veronese, Rondinella, Negrara, Rossignola
• Taste Like: Like Zinfandel, but with more dried fruit and earthy complexity, showcasing a richer, more velvety texture.
• Alcohol Percentage: 14%
• Closure: Cork
• Size: 750mL
• Appellation: Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore DOC
• Region: Veneto
• Region Location: Northeastern Italy
• Country: Italy
• Terroir: The vineyards are located on limestone and clay soils, which provide the grapes with structure and minerality. The Ripasso method, unique to Valpolicella, gives this wine its added depth, using the skins of Amarone grapes for secondary fermentation, which enhances richness and complexity.
• Aging: Aged for 12 months in oak barrels, followed by additional aging in the bottle, which adds layers of spice, vanilla, and smoothness to the wine.
• Farming: Sustainable farming practices are employed to ensure healthy vineyards and high-quality grapes, respecting the environment and promoting biodiversity.

Serving Temperature:
16-18°C – Serve slightly below room temperature to highlight the wine’s fruit, smooth tannins, and complex layers of spice and oak.

Winery:
Cesari is a prestigious winery in the Veneto region, recognized for producing high-quality wines that express the character of Valpolicella. Established in 1936, Cesari has become known for crafting wines that balance tradition and modernity, with a particular focus on the Ripasso method. The Due Torri Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore is a standout example of the estate’s ability to produce wines with depth, richness, and elegance.

Dishes this wine pairs with:

• Roast Lamb: Pairs beautifully with roast lamb or lamb shank, enhancing the wine’s rich fruit and spice.
• Braised Beef: Ideal with slow-cooked braised beef, osso buco, or beef stew, where the wine’s velvety texture complements the dish’s heartiness.
• Pasta with Meat Sauce: Perfect with tagliatelle Bolognese or pappardelle with wild boar ragu, adding richness to the pairing.
• Grilled Meats: Works well with grilled steaks or sausages, balancing the wine’s smooth tannins and fruity character.
• Mushroom Risotto: Matches beautifully with earthy mushroom risotto, enhancing the wine’s savory and fruity elements.

Cheeses this wine pairs with:

• Parmigiano-Reggiano (Italy): The nutty, crystalline texture of Parmigiano enhances the wine’s richness and fruit profile.
• Asiago (Italy): The semi-hard texture and slightly sweet, nutty flavor of Asiago balance the wine’s fruit and spice.
• Pecorino Romano (Italy): The sharp, salty flavor of Pecorino complements the wine’s velvety tannins and fruity notes.
• Gorgonzola (Italy): The creamy, pungent flavors of Gorgonzola contrast nicely with the wine’s bold structure and dark fruit.
• Mimolette (France): The aged, nutty flavors of Mimolette pair well with the wine’s rich fruit and earthy complexity.

Type: Red Wine
Style: Elegant, Well-Structured
Grape Varietal: Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara
Tastes Like: Comparable to an Amarone, with cherries, dried figs, and a smooth finish.
Alcohol Percentage: 13.5%
Closure: Cork
Size: 750mL
Region: Veneto, Italy
Terroir: Limestone and clay soils
Aging: 12 months in oak barrels
Serving Temperature: 16-18°C

Cesari is a historic winery in Veneto, renowned for its mastery of traditional winemaking. The "Due Torri" Ripasso exemplifies their dedication to quality and elegance.

Seafood: Grilled salmon with balsamic glaze.
Poultry: Roasted quail with thyme.
Vegetarian: Mushroom lasagna or roasted red pepper pasta.
Meat: Braised lamb or venison stew.

Parmigiano-Reggiano: Aged and nutty, enhancing the wine's depth.
Pecorino Toscano: Firm and savoury, balancing the wine's structure.
Asiago: Mild and creamy, complementing the wine's smoothness.
Fontina: Soft and buttery, providing a harmonious pairing.

Mushroom Lasagna

Ingredients:

• 12 lasagna sheets
• 2 cups mixed mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups béchamel sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Sauté mushrooms and garlic in olive oil until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Layer lasagna sheets, béchamel, mushrooms, ricotta, and Parmesan in a baking dish.
3. Repeat layers, finishing with béchamel and Parmesan on top.
4. Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden and bubbly.
5. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tip: Pair with Cesari "Due Torri" Ripasso for a satisfying meal.